A review by Barbara Allen - Pasadena Tabernacle U.S.AThe simplicity of the single word "Believe" as the title of Darren Bartlett"s latest recording belies the intensity of the "belief" experience and, indeed, the listening experience one is about to have. When I first heard the somewhat ethereal a capella beginning of "Enter, Enter", the first track, I was filled with curiosity as to just what this recording would hold. What I found was a plethora of musical styles and treatments of the voice that both delighted and intrigued me.

Teaming with Salvacosta, a group he founded in 2000, Darren Bartlett, not only the soloist, but also the Director of the group and arranger of much of the material contained within "Believe", has an all-too-rare understanding of the beauty of the human voice and harnesses such qualities in his arrangements.

The way the recording is compiled is as a patchwork of sacred and secular songs ( the latter having overt references to the notion of faith and belief such as "You Are The Wind Beneath My Wings") tastefully brought together into one entity .Indeed, one could say that "Believe" is actually two separate recordings under one canopy designed to reach out to the believer and non- believer alike through a well thought out choice of music. Not only is the recording well produced, but the voices of Salvacosta possess such a vocal cohesiveness and clarity that I was not left listening intently in order to hear words or melodies drowning in accompaniment or over treatment, but rather, was able to calmly absorb the spirit of the music.

Darren"s experience and training in musical theatre is very prevalent in his presentation of "You"re Still You" and the title track "Believe" from the movie "The Polar Express" and one feels that he is singing just for you. Having seen Darren "live", this recording succeeds in capturing the tonal qualities and subtle nuances of his expressive voice even without the benefit of the visual element of his performance. Also worthy of note are "Lord of Love"( soloist: Kelly Woods) and "Shenandoah". The lush a cappella harmonies towards the end had me hitting the repeat button again and again, if only to wallow in the glorious antithetical glissandos in the last measure. I loved that!

"Believe" is a journey, a pilgrimage through life"s changing scenery. Its songs endeavour to strike a chord with the listener and enable an easy crossing over from one style to another whilst never losing sight of its single common goal - to share the unquestionable belief that we as Christians have in the truths of the Gospel.

What better purpose for a music ministry could there be...

Tracks Include:

EnterWind beneath my WingsOnward!Lord of LoveYou're still youClimb ev'ry mountainWhere is LoveTestify! To where you areShineAngelic RhapsodyHarbor LightBelieveShenandoahLion KingSilent Prayer

Any unauthorised broadcasting, public performance, copying or re-recording of any DMB Music property will constitute an infringement of copyright. Commercial copying, hiring, lending is prohibited.Selling without prior written consent prohibited. Obtain permission before redistributing. In all cases this notice must remain intact.